ATLANTA–Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv., has released a statement in response to the verdicts rendered today in the case of Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick:

“We continue to lift up the Arbery family in prayer as we join with countless others in grieving Ahmaud Arbery’s death. The violent loss of life is a wound in our community–one that does not heal easily. The conviction of those responsible for the murder of Ahmaud Arbery does not bring him back. It does not bridge the racial divide in our community. It does not bring to an end the sin of racism, but it does advance the work toward justice.

We still have plenty of work to do in America to live up to the ideals of justice and equality that we say we represent. Let us use this moment to rededicate ourselves to the intentional, difficult and uncomfortable work of naming and eradicating systemic racism.

We must see all of our brothers and sisters as children of God. We are called to acknowledge and root out racism in our neighborhoods, schools, workplaces and yes, even our churches. I hope you will join me in prayer, peace and restorative works of justice in this cause of respecting the human dignity of all.”